The Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore are one of northern Italy’s most captivating destinations. With their lush gardens, elegant palaces, and charming fishing villages, they offer a perfect blend of history, beauty, and leisure. We especially like the private boat experience for its flexibility and intimacy, giving you a personalized view of the islands away from crowds. Whether you’re into art, botany, or just a scenic escape, these tours provide a memorable way to explore this unique lakeside archipelago.
If you’re short on time or want a straightforward visit, the Isola Bella open-date ticket is perfect for experiencing the iconic palace and terraced gardens at your own pace. For nature lovers or garden enthusiasts, the Isola Madre ticket offers a lush walk among rare plants and exotic blooms, with the chance to explore a historic palace as well. Below, we break down each tour to help you choose the best experience for your trip.
1. Borromean Islands: Isola Bella Open-Date Entry Ticket
At number 1, the Isola Bella open-date entry ticket allows you to explore this renowned island at your own pace. Spend your time wandering through the Baroque palace, marveling at its ornate architecture and stunning interiors. The highlight, however, is the terraced gardens, expertly designed with fountains, sculptures, and rare blooms that provide excellent photo opportunities. The ticket is valid for one day, and you can check availability to find a time that suits your schedule.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of historical elegance and natural beauty. Many visitors enjoy the peaceful lakeside views from the gardens, which are especially beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon. The charming village nearby is perfect for a leisurely stroll and boutique shopping. The reviews are glowing — one reviewer simply says, “v,” giving it a perfect 5/5.
This ticket is ideal if you want a flexible, self-guided visit to one of the most iconic islands in the Borromean group. The price offers good value considering the high-quality access to both the palace and gardens. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace and want to avoid guided tour schedules.
Bottom Line: The Isola Bella open-date ticket offers a beautiful, flexible way to experience the island’s highlights with the freedom to take your time.
2. Borromean Islands: Isola Madre Open-Date Entry Ticket
Taking second place, the Isola Madre open-date ticket offers a lush escape into a botanical wonderland. This island is famous for its vibrant plant collection, featuring rare and exotic species that thrive in its subtropical climate. The botanical gardens are a highlight, filled with fragrant blooms and unique plants you won’t find elsewhere in Italy.
The Palazzo Borromeo on Isola Madre also welcomes visitors, revealing centuries of history through its elegant rooms and furnishings. A walk along Viale Africa, lined with lush greenery, makes for a relaxing experience. The combination of botanical richness and historic charm makes this island appealing to nature lovers.
The reviews reflect a high appreciation, with visitors noting the “stunning variety of plants and peaceful atmosphere.” The ticket is valid for one day, and you can plan your visit around your own schedule, checking availability online.
This tour is best for travelers who want a mix of botany, history, and scenic lakeside walking. It’s particularly suitable for those with an interest in exotic plants or seeking a quieter, more nature-focused experience. The ticket price provides good value, especially considering the unique plant collection and historic features.
Bottom Line: Isola Madre is a peaceful, colorful retreat that combines botanical splendor with historical intrigue, perfect for garden enthusiasts.
3. Borromean Islands: Private Boat Service to Isola Bella and Isola Pescatori
Number 3 on our list is the private boat service that takes you around Lake Maggiore and its famous islands. This experience offers a personalized and flexible way to see Isola Bella, with the advantage of customizing your itinerary and enjoying the lake’s scenery from the comfort of a motorboat.
The tour covers navigation on Lake Maggiore, giving you spectacular views of the islands and the surrounding mountains. You’ll get to explore Isola Bella’s gardens — with their terraced design overlooking the water — and visit Isola dei Pescatori, a small fishing village with narrow streets and fresh seafood. The boat can be booked for a half-day or whole-day experience, providing a more intimate perspective than the usual ferry routes.
Guests praise the enchantment of the cruise and the freedom to linger on each island. One review highlights the “spectacle of the gardens and the charming village,” emphasizing how the experience feels exclusive and personal.
This option is best suited for travelers seeking flexibility, privacy, and a scenic adventure. It’s pricier than the other tickets but offers a one-of-a-kind perspective of the islands, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.
Bottom Line: The private boat experience provides a bespoke way to see the islands with comfort and flexibility, ideal for those wanting a memorable, tailored day.
How to Choose
When selecting the right tour in Borromean Islands, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, the Isola Bella or Isola Madre tickets are excellent options. For a more immersive, scenic adventure with personalized service, the private boat provides unmatched flexibility.
Budget travelers may prefer the self-guided tickets, while those seeking a relaxed, private experience might find the boat service worth the extra cost. Timing-wise, visiting early or late in the day can enhance your experience — the islands look especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak season (spring and summer), to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
The Borromean Islands offer a range of tours that cater to different interests and travel styles. For pure beauty and timeless elegance, the Isola Bella open-date ticket is hard to beat. Garden lovers will find the Isola Madre a peaceful oasis filled with rare plants and history. And those who want a truly personal journey should consider the private boat, which combines scenic sailing with island visits.
No matter which option you choose, early booking is wise to ensure you get the day and time that fits your plans. These tours turn a simple lakeside visit into a memorable experience you’ll talk about long after you leave.